Germany's ePA rollout sees low public awareness and support gaps

A recent survey by the Verbraucherzentrale Hamburg found that 76% of insured Germans do not know their health insurers offer an ePA‑ombudsperson, and only 25% actively manage their electronic patient record (ePA) established since 2025. The ombuds offices are legally required to assist with app setup, data deletion, access controls, and information on who has viewed the record, but many, especially older people, remain unaware of the service.

Parallel developments in digital health are expanding across the German‑speaking region. Online pharmacies promote free shipping and extensive product ranges for both humans and pets, while telemedicine platforms, health‑tracking apps, and digital patient portals are highlighted as top resources for consumers. Switzerland is witnessing a rapid growth in e‑health, with increased tele‑consultations, AI‑driven diagnostics, and investment in health‑tech, though challenges such as data protection, interoperability and professional acceptance persist.

Overall, the push for digitalisation of healthcare aims to improve access, efficiency and cost‑effectiveness, but the limited public awareness of tools like the ePA and fragmented digital health offerings indicate that further outreach and integrated solutions are needed.